Russell Simmons facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Russell Simmons
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Simmons at the 2012 Tribeca Film Festival
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Russell Wendell Simmons
October 4, 1957 New York City, U.S.
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| Years active | 1984–2017 |
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| Children | 2 |
| Relatives | Joseph Simmons (brother) Danny Simmons (brother) |
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Russell Wendell Simmons (born October 4, 1957) is an American entrepreneur, writer, and music producer. He is best known for co-founding the famous hip-hop record label Def Jam Recordings. He also created popular clothing brands like Phat Farm.
Simmons helped many famous artists start their careers. He worked with stars like Run DMC, the Beastie Boys, LL Cool J, and Jay-Z. He also produced the popular TV show Def Comedy Jam. Simmons is a supporter of veganism and yoga. In 2011, his net worth was estimated to be $340 million.
In 2017, after facing public criticism, Simmons stepped down from his leadership roles at his companies.
Early Life and First Steps in Music
Russell Wendell Simmons was born in the Hollis neighborhood of Queens, New York City, on October 4, 1957. His father worked for the public schools, and his mother worked for the New York City parks department. His brothers are the painter Daniel Simmons Jr. and Joseph Simmons, who is famous as Rev Run from the hip-hop group Run-DMC.
After high school, Simmons went to the City College of New York. There, he met a DJ named Kurt Walker. Walker introduced him to the growing world of hip-hop. In 1977, Simmons saw an artist named Eddie Cheeba perform and knew he wanted to build a career in music. He felt like he had "witnessed the invention of the wheel."
Career in Music, Fashion, and TV
Founding Def Jam Recordings
In 1984, Simmons and his friend Rick Rubin started Def Jam Recordings. It quickly became one of the most important labels in hip-hop music. As the head of Def Jam, Simmons signed and helped guide many legendary artists. These included Public Enemy, DMX, and Kanye West.
In 1998, Simmons sold his part of Def Jam to the Universal Music Group for $120 million.
Work in Movies and Television
Simmons was also involved in movies and TV. In 1985, he co-produced and acted in the film Krush Groove. He and his partner Stan Lathan created hit shows for HBO, including Def Comedy Jam and Def Poetry Jam.
He also co-produced successful movies like The Nutty Professor starring Eddie Murphy in 1996.
Building a Fashion Brand
In 1992, Simmons started a clothing company called Phat Fashions. The company sold clothes under the brand names Phat Farm and Baby Phat. The style was inspired by classic designers like Ralph Lauren but had a hip-hop feel.
The clothing line became very popular, thanks to Simmons's connections with rap artists. Phat Fashions grew into a major brand, selling clothes for men, women, and children, as well as jewelry and perfume. In 2004, Simmons sold the company for $140 million.
Personal Life
Simmons married model Kimora Lee on December 20, 1998. They have two daughters together. The couple announced their separation in 2006 and later divorced.
Since 1999, Simmons has been a vegan, which means he does not eat any animal products. He practices Jivamukti Yoga and Transcendental Meditation. He says he respects all religions and describes himself as a Christian who practices yoga.
Social Activism
Simmons is known for his work as a social activist. He supports many causes he believes in.
Animal Rights
Simmons is a strong supporter of animal rights. He became a vegan because he believes in Ahimsa, the idea of not causing harm to any living being. He supports Farm Sanctuary, a group that works to stop cruelty to farm animals. The organization PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) has given him awards for his work.
Helping Communities
In 1995, Simmons and his brothers started the Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation. This organization helps bring art programs to young people in communities that don't have many resources.
He has also worked to change drug laws and has supported organizations that fight against modern slavery. In 2009, he was named a Goodwill Ambassador for the UN Slavery Memorial at the United Nations.
Promoting Understanding
Simmons works to bring people of different religions and backgrounds together. He is the chairman of the Foundation for Ethnic Understanding. He has also supported conferences that bring together Muslim and Jewish leaders to promote peace and understanding.
Recent Business Ventures
Simmons continues to be involved in business. He is a senior advisor for a vegan burger company called Everything Legendary. In 2021, he also released a collection of NFTs called Masterminds of Hip Hop, which was organized by the rapper Snoop Dogg.
See also
In Spanish: Russell Simmons para niños
